New Hope for Depression That Hasn't Responded to Other Medications
If you’ve tried multiple antidepressants without finding relief, you’re not alone—and there is hope. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved treatment specifically designed for adults with treatment-resistant depression. It offers a different approach when traditional medications haven’t been enough.
What is SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO® is an FDA-approved nasal spray medication for adults with treatment-resistant depression—meaning you’ve tried at least two different antidepressants without adequate relief. Unlike traditional antidepressants that work through serotonin or dopamine, SPRAVATO® works through a different brain pathway called the glutamate system. This different mechanism may help explain why it can be effective when other treatments haven’t worked.
SPRAVATO® is also approved for adults with major depression who are experiencing active suicidal thoughts when used alongside an oral antidepressant.
Important to know: SPRAVATO® is administered only in certified medical facilities with proper monitoring and safety protocols. SOS Wellness is a certified SPRAVATO® treatment center.
Who May Benefit from SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO® may be right for you if:
You Have Treatment-Resistant Depression
- You've been diagnosed with major depressive disorder
- You've tried at least two different antidepressants at adequate doses without sufficient improvement
- You're looking for a new approach when traditional treatments haven't helped
You're Ready for Supervised Treatment
- You can attend regular treatment sessions at our clinic
- You're comfortable with a 2-hour monitoring period after each session
- You can arrange transportation home (you cannot drive after treatment)
- You're willing to continue taking an oral antidepressant alongside SPRAVATO®
Your psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if SPRAVATO® is appropriate for you based on your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals.
Induction Phase (Weeks 1-4)
- Two sessions per week
- Each session takes about 2 hours total (treatment plus monitoring)
- Your doctor determines the right dose for you
Maintenance Phase (Weeks 5-8)
- Reduced to once weekly if you're showing improvement
- Continue monitoring your response
Ongoing Treatment (Week 9+)
- May reduce to every two weeks based on your progress
- Treatment duration is individualized
During Your Session
Pre-Treatment Check
- We'll check your blood pressure before you begin.
Self-Administration
- You'll use the nasal spray yourself under our supervision. If your dose requires two devices, you'll rest for 5 minutes between sprays.
Monitored Rest Period
- You'll remain in our comfortable treatment area for 2 hours while we monitor you. Common experiences during this time include temporary feelings of disconnection, dizziness, or relaxation. These effects typically fade during the monitoring period.
Post-Treatment Check
- We'll check your blood pressure again and make sure you're ready to go home with your designated driver.
Before Your Appointment
- Arrange transportation home (you cannot drive until the next day after restful sleep)
- Avoid eating for at least 2 hours before treatment
- Avoid drinking liquids for at least 30 minutes before treatment
- Let us know about any changes in your medications or health
In clinical trials, some patients reported improvement sooner than with traditional antidepressants; individual response varies—much faster than traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks. However, everyone responds differently. Your treatment team will monitor your progress closely and adjust your treatment plan as needed. In clinical trials, many patients began to see improvement during the first weeks of treatment; individual response varies.
Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects
During and immediately after treatment, you may experience:
Dissociation
- Temporary feelings of being disconnected from yourself, your thoughts, or your surroundings
Increased blood pressure
- (which is why we monitor it)
Numbness or decreased sensation
Most side effects occur during the treatment session and the 2-hour monitoring period, and typically resolve before you go home. This is why the supervised monitoring period is required.
Important Safety Considerations
SPRAVATO® may not be appropriate if you have:
- Certain heart or blood vessel conditions (like aneurysms)
- History of bleeding in the brain
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Active substance use concerns
You cannot drive, operate machinery, or do potentially dangerous activities until the next day after a full night’s sleep.
Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation
- Meet with our psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner to discuss your depression history, medications you've tried, and whether SPRAVATO® is right for you.
Step 2: Insurance Verification
- Our team will work with your insurance to obtain any needed approvals. Many commercial plans, Medicare, and Medicaid cover SPRAVATO® when medical criteria are met.
Step 3: Schedule Your First Session
- We'll coordinate with the specialty pharmacy that dispenses SPRAVATO® and schedule your first treatment session.
Step 4: Begin Treatment
- Start your treatment journey with close monitoring and support from our experienced clinical team.
Insurance & Coverage
Many commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and Ohio Medicaid cover SPRAVATO® treatment when medical necessity is demonstrated.
- Diagnosis of major depressive disorder
- Documentation that you've tried at least two different antidepressants without adequate relief
- Baseline depression assessment
- Concurrent use of an oral antidepressant
- Treatment at a certified facility like SOS Wellness
Our administrative team will verify your coverage and obtain necessary approvals before you begin treatment.
About SPRAVATO® Treatment at SOS Wellness
SOS Wellness is a certified SPRAVATO® treatment center serving Middletown, Ohio and surrounding communities. Our experienced psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and nursing staff provide comprehensive mental health care in a supportive, professional environment.
We meet all federal and state requirements for safely administering SPRAVATO®, including specialized staff training, monitoring protocols, and safety procedures. The medication is dispensed by a certified pharmacy specifically for each patient and delivered for your scheduled appointment.
Our Approach
We’re committed to helping people with treatment-resistant depression access innovative, evidence-based treatments while maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and care.